The U.S. Navy issued an official apology for the bombardment and near destruction of the native Alaskan village of Angoon 142 years ago. The attack occurred on Oct. 26, 1882, resulting in the death of six children and leaving the village without food or shelter during a harsh winter. Rear Adm. Mark Sucato acknowledged the pain and suffering inflicted upon the Tlingit people, recognizing the loss of life, resources, culture, and intergenerational trauma caused by the incident. The destruction at Angoon stemmed from the accidental death of a Tlingit shaman on a whaling ship, which led to a series of events culminating in the Navy destroying the village, burning canoes, food stores, and homes. The village received a settlement in 1973, but an official apology from the Navy had been long-awaited. This historic apology follows a trend of recent acknowledgments by the U.S. government for atrocities committed against Native American communities, including President Joe Biden’s apology for abuses at Native American boarding schools. The Navy also issued a similar apology for the burning and bombardment of the Tlingit village of Kake in 1869. The community of Angoon was grateful for the official acknowledgment and apology, with President Rosita Worl expressing gratitude for the recognition of their culture and history.
Photo credit
www.usatoday.com
